By Dr. Amy K Davis, M.D.
Lifelong exposure to a growing number of xenobiotics and toxic chemicals in the modern world is unavoidable. While the concept of toxin-accumulation in the body and its connection to various health problems has long been a fundamental tenet of traditional healthcare systems, recent research has uncovered more about how toxins affect living organisms (including us!), and where the toxins originate. We also have an increased understanding of the ability to detoxify (or biotransform) and excrete toxic substances, which is critically important for optimal health.
There is persuasive evidence that even low-level toxic exposures contribute to the development of a variety of chronic health conditions, including fatigue, hormonal and glandular disruption, and chronic degenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s. Understanding toxicity and taking practical steps to improve the detoxification process are essential to any Functional Medicine healthcare approach.
With the pervasive nature of chemicals in our environment, the “single exposure” model of toxicology is clearly the exception rather than the rule. It is ultimately the total body burden of toxic substances that interact synergistically to cause physiological dysfunction and bring about chronic diseases in some individuals. Who will be impacted is largely defined by our highly variable and individual abilities to detoxify and eliminate toxins via liver and kidney detoxification.
Your body needs continuous nutritional support for cleansing, so eating a healthy balanced diet full of whole, unprocessed foods is an important step in supporting detoxification. Diet, regular exercise and incorporating some nutritional and herbals can be very supportive of the detoxification process.
Examples include:
- Milk Thistle which contains silymarin is known to support both phases of liver detoxification and act as a potent antioxidant and protection for the liver.
- Glycine supports liver detoxification and aids in the removal of ammonia from the body.
- Turmeric prevents oxidative stress, is an anti-inflammatory and protects the liver from damage.
- Dandelion Root increases bile production which aids digestion of fats and helps to prevent liver damage. Dandelions are full of vitamins and minerals.
- Cilantro supports binding of heavy metals (chelation) facilitating the removal of them from the body.
- Red Clover stimulates bile production and acts as a diuretic helping to cleanse the body of excess fluids.
- Water – don’t forget to drink plenty of water every day!
Dr. Amy K Davis M.D.
Crossing Back to Health
485 Wildwood Parkway, Suite 2
Ballwin, MO 63011
636 778-9158
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